Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems: Recent Episodes
Adrienne Cossom
Fold em offers straight talk about dealing with the fall-out from gambling. Whether you are looking at stopping or scaling back your own gambling or helping a family member with a problem, this podcast will help you take back control. Hear from gamblers who have been through it. Tips from counsellors. There is a way out from the hold gambling has on your life.
Learn more about how to address gambling problems and find resources and support at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
Youth gambling is a growing but often overlooked issue with potentially serious consequences. With easy online access, gambling-like features in video games, and an explosion of advertisements for sports betting, young people are exposed to and getting involved with gambling - often without realizing the risks.
Listen to this episode of Fold em to hear:
- How youth are gambling - even when they aren't legally of age
- Why young brains are particularly vulnerable to gambling getting out of control
- How to recognize warning signs of a gambling problem
- Safeguards to protect youth and emerging adults from gambling harms
You hear from three guests. First, Meghan, talks about her own experiences with compulsive gambling and how, as part of her recovery, she's been advocating for more to be done to protect youth and the next generation from gambling harms. Then, you get to hear from two Canadian experts on gambling and the brain. Deirdre Querney, MSW, has worked as a problem gambling counsellor in Ontario for the past twenty-five years. She's joined by Dr. Iris Balodis, who is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University where she has a research lab focused on gambling disorder and the brain. Together, Deirdre and Iris developed BrainConnections.ca to share information about how problem gambling affects the brain.
To read a summary of this episode go to the episode 92 blog at gamblingproblemhelp.ca You can also learn more about young brains and video games at BrainConnections.ca. Iris and Deirdre have developed videos and free, downloadable materials.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome your feedback.
Fold em is taking a break from releasing further episodes. However, the library of past episodes will continue to be available on all podcast apps as well as on the Fold em website www.problemgamblinghelp.ca.
Thank you for listening and for those of you connected with us and joined an episode.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Gambling addiction is often seen as an individual problem, but its effects ripple far beyond the person placing the bets. For families, it can lead to financial instability, emotional distress, and fractured relationships. In this episode, Katie shares her personal journey of discovering her husband's gambling problem and how she and her children moved forward.
Speaking as a parent and a teacher with twenty years of experience, Katie argues that more recognition is needed about how gambling problems impact families, especially young people. Noting a lack of resources and supports for children experiencing gambling harms, she developed a workbook. It's a tool for parents, family members, teachers and counsellors to help children understand and cope when compulsive gambling disrupts their lives. Katie's workbook is available on Amazon and is called All Bets Are Off: Hope and Healing When a Loved One's Gambling Addiction is Destroying Everything.
Listen to this impactful interview with Katie and hear:
- What spouses and family members can do when a loved one isn't ready to stop gambling
- How to support children when a parent's gambling is negatively impacting the family
- What help is available for spouses, family members and chldren experiencing gambling harms
To read a summary of this episode go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. You can also hear more from Katie on a podcast that she and a friend from Gam-Anon produce and host - Making Bets in a Burning House. It provides insight and support for families, friends and spouses impacted by gambling addiction.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Most of the Fold em episodes have been for those of you who decided to stop gambling. We've been helping you stop and stay stopped.
This episode is different. It's for those of you are currently gambling or know someone who is. We explore the fine line between recreational gambling and losing control. Our hope is that you better understand the risks when gambling and that some of us are more vulnerable to gambling harm. We share information, strategies and tools to help you keep gambling in control, recognize warning signs of problem gambling, and know where to turn for help.
We're joined by two experts, Luke Clark (Director, Centre for Gambling Research at the University of British Columbia) and Ryan McCarthy (Director, Player Health, British Columbia Lottery Corporation). They share the latest research and concrete strategies. They also discuss how the gambling industry and government can do more to reduce gambling harm.
Listen to episode 90 and learn:
- Are you at risk for gambling getting out of control?
- How to recognize warning signs of a gambling problem
- Tools and strategies to help keep gambling in check
- What steps to take when gambling isn't fun anymore
To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. For more information on how gambling games work as well as tools and supports, visit BCLC's GameSense. If you live in British Columbia, you can reach out to a GameSense Advisor at 1-866-815-0222 ext 3, via Live Chat, or by visiting a GameSense Info Centre at a casino.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
There are an increasing number of people speaking up about gambling related harm and the need to better address this. One of these people is Anna Martin from Australia.
In this episode of Fold em, hear Anna's inspiring journey from gambling addiction to recovery. She tells us how she has been speaking up in the media and to politicians about the negative impacts of gambling, the need to better regulate the gambling industry and advertising, and to improve services for those struggling with gambling, particularly women. In response to this, Anna founded The Untangle Project to help women find support and resources for gambling problems.
Listen now and hear:
- How Anna overcame a twenty year gambling problem
- Why women are particularly vulnerable to gambling problems
- What resources and supports are available to help women struggling with their own or someone else's gambling
To read the blog for this episode, visit www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. To learn more about The Untangle Project, go to www.theuntangleprojectaus.net OR on Instagram @TheUntangleProjectAUS.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When gambling gets out of control it is a challenging and deeply isolating struggle. However, it is absolutely possible to get through this with shifting your mindset and accessing support and tools. One of the most crucial steps in overcoming this challenge is acceptance - acknowledging the realities of your situation and taking responsibility for change.
In this episode of Fold em, we provide practical tips and an inspiring personal story about how acceptance can help you get unstuck from problem gambling.
You get to benefit from the experience and wisdom of two guests. Jen Gregg has been a counsellor with Gambling Support BC for more than twenty years and has great insight into what is needed to overcome gambling problems. She's joined by Adam, a former poker player, who knows first hand how gambling can get out of hand when you least expect it to happen to you. He tells us about the bumpy road of fully accepting he had a gambling problem and how he was able to rebuild his life after being honest with himself and others.
Listen now and hear:
- That it's common to be struggling with gambling, and despite this, not want to let it go
- That facing the facts about your gambling is a crucial steps towards changing it
- Practical tips for getting unstuck from gambling problems through acceptance
To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog for episode 88 at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
With easy access to sports betting, many people are finding it has become a daily habit. Over time, it can take up more time, focus and money and stall your life.
In this episode of Fold em, hear from James, a passionate traveller and podcaster, who was swept into this world but has since reclaimed his life. We delve into the impact of sports betting on him, his decision to step back from it, and how he has rediscovered other passions.
Listen to episode 87 and hear about:
- Taking an honest look at the time, energy and money going into sports betting
- Strategies for pulling back
- What to say to friends, when you decrease or stop betting
- How to handle free time and boredom when you're gambling less
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog for episode 87 at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca. Reach out to James at the Winging it Travel Podcast.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
In this insightful episode, Regina, a seasoned member of Gam-Anon with nearly 50 years of experience, discusses three vital themes for those impacted by a loved one's gambling problem. Regina talks about the difference between support and enabling, and how to detach with love. She also helps listeners recognize common emotional games that show up with gambling problems.
Listen to episode 86 and learn:
- How gambling problems impact those closest to the gambler
- How to support rather than enable
- How to pull away from the emotional games that come up in relationships impacted by gambling problems
- How to keep yourself grounded, even if the gambler isn't ready to stop
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. You can also learn more from reading the literature written by members of Gam-Anon. It is available in print or e-book format and can be purchased on the Gam-Anon website or through Amazon.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us at Fold em through Facebook or Instagram. Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can send us an email to Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Has gambling got you down? You're not the only one. Tune in to this episode and learn what you can do about it.
Hear from Chris about how gambling was the norm with his group of friends during their twenties. When he started online gambling, it became more and more consuming. He started gambling by himself, the bets came faster, and he gambled for longer periods of time.
Chris talks about the bumpy road of stopping gambling. He had been able to stop drinking and drugs cold turkey and on his own. This didn't work with gambling. He shares what helped him to stop and turn his life around. Chris brings a lot of wisdom to this conversation - from his four years of being bet free, as a long-time participant and host of online meetings, and from doing his own research and studies on addiction and the brain.
Listen now and learn:
- Why gambling gets out of control
- What helped Chris to pull back from gambling and stay away
- How to connect with Chris and others who understand gambling problems and are willing to help
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
Chris says he has connected with many compulsive gamblers around the world via email. He shared his email address for anyone who would like to write him - chris12steps@gmail.com
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
With cigarettes and alcohol, we take steps to protect those who use these products AND society in general from related harms. For example, there are age requirements to buy alcohol. We also see images and warnings of disease caused by smoking on a pack of cigarettes.
Many say that more needs to be done to limit gambling-related harms, particularly for people who are most vulnerable to this.
In this episode, you get to hear from Dr. Nigel Turner, a Scientist with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and the University of Toronto. He has a talent for speaking in a really simple, clear and engaging way about gambling issues. It's a great interview.
Listen now to hear about:
- What do we know about gambling harms? Who is most vulnerable?
- To protect myself from gambling harms, what do I need to know about the house edge and gambling odds?
- What is being done around the world to reduce gambling harms?
- What more could be done by the gambling industry, public health and individual gamblers to reduce gambling harms?
To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog for episode 84 at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca You can also read the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health's recent Gambling Policy Framework.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Reach out to us through Facebook or Instagram Find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also email at Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Hear a personal story of working through the Twelve Steps of Recovery and how it helped Georgete break free of a recurring and destructive gambling problem. Learn what's involved with each step and how you can access this recovery program.
Georgete shares how working through the Twelve Steps with a sponsor and attending online meetings through Recovery Road Online helped her to reach one year gambling free. She shares how the Twelve Steps taught her important skills for living a better life.
Listen now and get answers to these questions:
- What are the Twelve Steps? How can this program help someone who has struggled with gambling?
- What's involved with each of the Twelve Steps?
- Will working through the Twelve Steps benefit me if I'm unsure about connecting with a Higher Power?
Share this episode with someone who will find it helpful. Our hope at Fold em is to help people struggling with gambling to connect with support.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with a Twelve Step Recovery program, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
To connect with other supports for gambling problems, here's more options:
The Broke Girl Society
GamTalk
SMART Recovery
To read a summary of this podcast, check out the blog at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also email us at Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
It can be done. You can admit to yourself and others that gambling is causing problems for you. You can stop gambling, deal with the financial impact, and rebuild trust with important people. You can also put things in place to prevent a relapse. Laura joins us in this episode and shares how she did all of this.
Listen to episode 82 and hear about:
- Why it can be hard to admit to yourself that your gambling is out of control
- Laura's story of getting help, facing hard stuff, and getting through it
- How Laura stopped gambling and has stayed away for more than year
Laura dedicates this episode to her doctor, Catherine Textor - "An amazing human who showed me compassion and zero judgment and provided a safe place to admit I needed help."
To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog at gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
If you live with chronic pain and gamble, you're more at risk for developing a gambling problem. If you've had a gambling problem and live with chronic pain and/or health conditions, it's important to get help for both issues to prevent a relapse.
In this episode of Fold em, hear Patty's personal story. She tells us that when she was gambling, both physical pain as well as stress and worry decreased. However, over time as gambling got out of control, it made life much more difficult for her. Patty shares how recovery provided her with the patience and support needed to steadily pursue treatment for her health conditions. And, although these haven't gone away, she's feeling much better.
You also hear from Kuldip Gill, a Registered Clinical Counsellor in Vancouver who is a clinician with Gambling Support BC. She explains why chronic pain creates risk for gambling addiction and offers guidance on how to address both pain and gambling issues successfully.
Listen to episode 81 and hear:
- Why it is important to be cautious if you gamble and experience chronic pain or health issues
- A personal story of stopping gambling and getting help for pain and health issues
- How to help yourself feel better as you pull back from gambling
If you want to learn more, read the blog for this episode at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Many people deal with gambling problems on their own. They think, "I'm not as bad as others. I can fix this." For some, they just want to move on and avoid or delay getting help. Others can't stop thinking about the harms gambling has brought into their life, but feel too embarrassed to open up about it.
This is our 80th episode of Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems. The one suggestion we've heard from every guest is - don't deal with it on your own. Open up and connect with people who know about gambling issues.
In this episode, we tell you how easy it is to get help, support and guidance from people who have been through it. You hear from Frank, with Gamblers, Family and Friends in Recovery (GFFR) - an international notice board for people seeking recovery from a gambling problem. You also hear from Bruce with Recovery Road Online (RRO) - an online fellowship that aims to connect individuals struggling with gambling with others in recovery.
You'll learn how to find hundreds of meetings each week from around the world as well as a library of recorded speakers. There's also help for spouses, family and friends. Check out RRO and GFFR!
Listen to episode 80 and hear:
- What you will find at Recovery Road Online and Gamblers, Family and Friends in Recovery
- The variety of meetings available and how to access these
- How online meetings can help you
If you would like to learn more about RRO and GFFR as well as other online resources for gambling issues, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Making changes isn't easy. When gambling gets out of control, change is often more challenging. It can be hard to get to that place where you're ready to pull back from gambling. When you do stop, there are so many other issues to address (finances, relationships, your health) that it can feel overwhelming. It's not unusual to find that gambling hooks you in again.
In this episode, we offer guidance on how to get a good start with making whatever changes you want to tackle. We'll offer tips for staying on track and handling setbacks. You hear Shane tell his personal story about stopping gambling and getting his life in balance. Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee, a Clinical Psychologist from Toronto, shares practical suggestions for being successful with change.
Listen to episode 79 to hear:
- A personal story of taking action to stop gambling and get life back in balance
- Strategies for getting a good start when making changes for yourself
- How to avoid setbacks and get back on track when they happen
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. To hear an earlier conversation with Shane about preventing relapse, listen to episode 69 (Sept 22, 2023). To connect with Dr. Taslim Alani-Verjee, visit her website at drtaslim.com.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Thanks for listening!
As you get pulled into gambling, your thinking changes. Your mind finds ways of convincing you to keep gambling, even when there are signs to stop. To an outsider, ideas such as "a win is just around the corner" or "I have a system that's guaranteed to win" seem irrational. But when you're in it, it feels real and true.
In this episode, I'm joined by John Woods. After struggling with gambling for over thirty years, he placed his last bet in January 2017 and went on to write a book called Gambling Addiction Explained: How to Stop Gambling and Regain Control of Your Life.
Listen in and learn about:
- Five common mind traps of problem gambling
- How to recognize and resist gambling's mind traps
- Why seeking help and guidance can free your mind from problem gambling
To find out more about problem gambling's mind traps, read the blog for this episode at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca. You can also download John's free report on Mind Traps at www.gamblingaddictionexplained.com. Purchase his book Gambling Addiction Explained on Amazon or through his website.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Experiencing grief and loss is hard enough. But, when grief leads to gambling problems, it gets harder.
Grief (like other big stressors) can create risk for gambling getting out of control. It can also set the stage for a relapse if you previously stopped gambling.
In this episode of Fold em, we hear from Sam about her experiences with grief and problem gambling and what has helped her with both issues. Heidi Furrer, a counsellor with Gambling Support BC who facilitates a workshop on grief and gambling, offers ideas for getting on solid footing again.
Listen to episode 77 and hear about:
- Why grief and loss can trigger gambling problems
- How to cope with both grief and problem gambling
- The benefits of continuing to stay connected to a loved one who has died
To learn more, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. Inspiration for this episode came from Lorraine Hedtke's work on Re-membering Practices. Find out more at www.rememberingpractices.com.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
Connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
One of the most distressing effects of problem gambling is the way is breaks down trust in relationships. In this episode, we offer guidance on how to rebuild that trust- emotionally and financially.
You hear from Regina, who brings much experience on this topic. Seven years into her marriage, Regina's husband revealed he had a gambling addiction. She shares how they rebuilt emotional and financial trust. Regina has also been an active member of Gam-Anon for 48 years and shares what she and others have learned and guidance that is offered in meetings and through their literature. Spouses, parents and family as well as those who have had a gambling problem will all find this episode helpful.
Listen now to episode 76 and learn:
- How to rebuild emotional and financial trust in relationships impacted by gambling
- What to do if the person you care about isn't ready to stop gambling or get help
- How spouses and family can decrease their own guilt and anxiety as well as learn to trust themselves again
If you would like to learn more about rebuilding trust, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. You can purchase Gam-Anon's literature at www.gam-anon.org or find an e-format on Amazon.
Gam-Anon meetings are available in person and virtually throughout the world. Visit their meeting directory at www.gam-anon.org.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111. Our outreach and counselling services are available to anyone struggling with their own or a loved one's gambling.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
In this episode, you hear from someone whose career has focused on better understanding gambling problems. Dr. Marc Potenza is a psychiatrist and professor at Yale University and Director of the Centre of Excellence in Gambling Research.
Since he's very familiar with the research on gambling addiction, I asked him questions that I commonly hear in the counselling room and from listeners.
Listen in and hear about:
- Why is it that some people become compulsive gamblers and others don't?
- What's happening in the brain when gambling gets out of control?
- Are there medications that can help with cravings?
- Does treatment work?
We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, so if you would like to read a summary, visit the blog at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When you gamble, it affects your brain and body. It's common to experience an urge to gamble. This involves thinking a lot about gambling or winning, having a strong desire to gamble, and feeling restless, anxious, excited and/or irritable. Urges can also continue after you stop gambling and create risk for relapse.
In this episode of Fold em, we return to the topic of urges. This time, with a focus on what brain science tells us about urges and how to handle them. I'm joined again by the team from Brain Connections - Dr. Iris Balodis from the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University and Deirdre Querney, MSW, a counsellor specializing in gambling problems for the past twenty three years. Brain Connections is an online resource about gambling addiction and the brain.
Listen to episode 74 and hear about:
- How to recognize triggers and urges
- What is going on in the brain with gambling urges
- What to THINK and DO when experiencing urges to gamble
To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. You can also learn more about urges at www.brainconnections.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
You may have heard this before ... gambling problems lead to isolation and the way forward is through connection. Maybe you're thinking, "That sounds nice, but connection is not on my agenda because I'm working all the time to pay off debt and the people in my life don't trust me." Well hang in with us, keep an open mind, and listen to this episode.
Bryce reflects upon the past three years since his last bet. He shares about how attending a residential treatment program was an important turning point for him and how the friendships made there have been crucial to his recovery. You also hear him talk about making amends with his wife and family and the bumpy road of re-building trust. And, what has helped him to let go of the heavy guilt and regret due to gambling.
Whether you are a gambler or have someone in your life with a gambling problem, you'll find inspiration in this conversation.
Listen to hear about:
- What helped Bryce to stay away from gambling for more than three years
- How he has been reconnecting with his wife and family and rebuilding trust
- Tips for letting go of guilt and regret arising from problem gambling
If you would like to read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. To hear an earlier conversation with Bryce when he was eleven months away from his last bet, listen to episode 19 of Fold em.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
There are lots of options for free slots, poker and sports betting online. Seems innocent enough at first glance. However, there can be unexpected risks and costs of "free" online play, particularly if you've previously struggled with keeping gambling in check.
In this episode, hear from two people who continued to play free online gambling games after stopping gambling. They talk about their reasons for doing so, the challenges this created, and why they ultimately decided to stop.
Listen now and hear about:
- Why free online gambling games can be risky to play, particularly if gambling has previously created problems for you.
- How to figure out where to draw a line in the sand for yourself with free gambling games.
- What to do if free gambling games are taking up too much of your money and time and/or creating tension with your support people.
To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When you've already taken those hard steps to pull back from gambling and face the fall out, you want to keep the momentum going, right? This is the final episode of four that provides guidance on how to stop gambling and stay on track long-term. In this one, we walk you through how to make a Recovery Plan for yourself. This plan outlines what is needed to keep gambling and other addictions out of your life and (most importantly) to keep growing the best version of yourself.
Our Recovery Plan has four parts, which were introduced in the previous three episodes. In the blog for this episode, we describe these four parts and provide questions to help you build your personal plan and keep revising it over time. Find the blog at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca.
Allison Rice, who works as a counsellor with Gambling Support BC and brings twenty years of experience with helping people overcome addiction, guides you through making a Recovery Plan. You also hear from Georgete, Shane and Abe who joined us in the previous three episodes.
Listen now and learn:
- How to put together your personal Recovery Plan
- Why having a personal Recovery Plan will make staying away from gambling easier
- That there is a path out from gambling problems
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
There's an important step that often gets missed when stopping gambling. This involves asking someone who knows about gambling issues or addiction to help watch out for signs that you're at risk to gamble again. Why is this important? Because you may not be aware it's happening or will downplay it in your own mind.
This is our third of four episodes that focus on how to stop gambling and have it stick long-term. Hear how Abe got really honest with a friend about what triggers him to gamble. They have been working together to come up with plans to protect him from relapse. You also get guidance from Allison Rice who works as a counsellor with Gambling Support BC and brings twenty years of experience with helping people overcome addiction.
Listen now and learn about:
- Key ingredients for staying away from gambling for good
- The importance of having an accountability partner and how to arrange this for yourself
- Why having a personal recovery plan will make staying away from gambling easier
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk (online chat forum)
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Want to make sure that you or a loved one doesn't get pulled back into a gambling problem? Then know what to watch out for. In this episode, learn about common and predictable ways that people get pulled into a relapse. And, how to identify signs that you are at risk to gamble again. Be prepared in order to protect yourself.
We hear from Shane who started gambling again after one year away. This led to him struggling with gambling for the next twelve years. He is now eight months gambling free and shares what he now knows and is doing differently to make it stick long-term.
We also hear from Allison Rice, who works as a counsellor with Gambling Support BC and brings twenty years of experience with helping people overcome addiction.
Listen now to episode 69 and learn about:
- Common and predictable ways people get pulled back into gambling again after deciding to stop
- How to identify the particular signs that you are vulnerable to relapse
- How to notice all the tricky thoughts that keep you hooked into gambling, even after you stop
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
What does it take to stop gambling and stay stopped? We're answering this question for you over the next four episodes. In this first one, we focus on the importance of being honest with yourself about the impact of gambling - on you and your life, as well as on those around you. If what you have been doing to address a gambling problem hasn't been working, we encourage you to take a risk and try something different. In particular, be willing to reach out for help and get guidance from those who know something about gambling issues.
Listen now and hear:
- Georgete's story of getting 4-months away from gambling and how online recovery groups, working with a sponsor, and writing about GA's 20 Questions has helped her to get there.
- Why more is needed than just saying, "I'm done" to prevent a relapse.
- What to do when you reach that point of "enough is enough" (so you don't get pulled back into gambling again).
To read a summary of this episode, go to the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
In this and upcoming episodes, we talk about groups and supports that are available online. Here's some options to check-out:
Recovery Road Online
Gamblers in Recovery
Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon
GamTalk
The Broke Girl Society
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Most of us encounter gambling daily in our communities. There's scratch and lottery tickets at the gas station, sports pools at work, and bingo down the road. In addition, there's all the gambling we encounter in fundraising - the 50/50 draws at local sporting events as well as raffles and community bingo. Do you think of all of these as gambling? Do you ever have conversations with family, friends or the groups you're involved with about the risks of gambling or how to support people in your community who have been impacted negatively by gambling?
In this episode, we hear from Sheri Pringle who works with Gambling Support BC and IS regularly out in the community talking about gambling. She's passionate about the issue. Her message is for all of us to give gambling the same attention as we do to alcohol, drugs and smoking.
Tune in and hear about:
- How gambling is normalized in our day-to-day lives and communities (despite it causing harm for some of us)
- How to talk about gambling, including the risks and how to keep it in balance
- How organization and groups that use gambling to fundraise can be more attentive to community members who have been negatively impacted by gambling
If you would like to read a summary of this episode, find the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
We're taking a holiday break in August 2023 and the next episode will be released in early September 2023. However, we are busy planning for the fall. If there is a question or topic that you would like us to address, please reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. You can also connect through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
After finding out that your spouse has a gambling problem or has had a relapse, it's understandable that you feel like your life has been turned upside down. You likely are feeling shock, anger and hurt because of the secrecy that typically comes with gambling problems. Stress and anxiety are also high because your financial security and trust with your spouse is on shaky ground.
In this episode, I'm joined by Neena Keram, a counsellor with Gambling Support BC who specializes in helping spouses, families and couples with gambling concerns. She tells us that discovering a spouse's gambling problem is a "betrayal trauma." She encourages spouses and family to get help for themselves - even if you think it's not your problem to fix. It helps to have space for you, to assist with making sense of it all and coping with the impacts.
This episode is geared to spouses and family members impacted by gambling issues, but is also helpful for those who gamble. Listening will help you to better understand what your loved ones are going through.
Listen now and learn about:
- Common reactions after learning a loved one has a gambling problem
- Why coping and moving on can feel so difficult
- How to feel grounded again - for your own benefit but also to move forward with addressing the gambling issue
If you would like to read a summary of the conversation, go to the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When you have concerns about someone's gambling, it's not easy to talk about. It's often challenging to prevent these conversations from going off the rails.
In this episode, we offer guidance for these tricky conversations. Spouses, family members and friends will hear strategies to use when first talking about gambling or if you suspect there has been a relapse. If you are someone who gambles, there is lots in this episode you'll find helpful too.
I'm joined by Saul Malek who is four-years away from his last bet. From the perspective of someone who gambled, he shares ideas for parents and spouses on how to reach out and talk about gambling problems. You also hear from Neena Keram who is a counsellor specializing in working with couples when addiction shows up in a relationship.
Listen in and hear about:
- How to talk to a loved one about their gambling, even when they don't think it is a problem OR want to do anything about it
- How to approach someone when you suspect they have relapsed
- How to encourage someone to get help, but not take over with managing the problem and "fixing" things
- How family members and spouses can cope when feeling overwhelmed and stressed by gambling problems
To read a summary of the tips and strategies covered in this episode, read the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
To reach out to Saul Malek, go to his website at www.saulmalek.com. If you live in British Columbia and would like to connect with Neena Keram's services through Gambling Support BC, visit www.najtherapies.com
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When dealing with gambling problems, many people worry about switching to another bad habit or addiction. It's important to pay attention to this because switching or substituting addictions (also called cross addiction) can be frustrating, de-moralizing and really dammaging to a person's life.
In this episode of Fold em, we tell you what you need to know about switching addictions so you are more informed and better able to prevent it from happening to you.
We're joined again by our experts on gambling and the brain - Dr. Iris Balodis and Deirdre Querney, MSW - from Brain Connections.
Listen now and learn about:
- Can someone have an addictive personality?
- What research tells us about why some people switch addictions
- How to create real and long-lasting wellness for yourself and freedom from addiction (Yes, it is possible!)
If you would like to read a summary of the episode and learn more about how to protect yourself from switching addictions, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca and check out the handout on this at www.BrainConnections.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Saul grew up betting on fantasy baseball. He says it was "a part of my life" and "what tied my group of friends together." In college, when a friend suggested they bet on sports with a bookie he didn't think much about it before saying "I'm in."
Saul's experience is pretty typical. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, about 67% of college students bet on sports. They also tell us that youth rates of being at-risk for problem gambling are 2 to 3 times higher than adult rates. Saul is one of those students who developed a gambling problem.
Saul Malek joins us in this episode to talk about his experiences with sports betting.
Listen in and hear:
- How Saul's betting increased in less than a year from wagering on a couple of games to 150 bets a week.
- How gambling problems stay hidden - from yourself, from others, and on campuses
- What helped Saul to recognize and accept that sports betting was out of control for him (and what he did about it)
To learn more about why sports betting problems often stay hidden and what you can do about this if you or someone you care about is struggling, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you would like to connect with Saul Malek, visit his website at www.saulmalek.com
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Lots of people are playing fantasy sports. For some, particularly when you play daily or with multiple line-ups, it can take up increasing amounts of time, focus and money. Steve Delaney joins us to share his experiences with this and how, for him, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) turned into something that was stressful, costly and all-consuming.
Listen now to this episode and hear about:
- The tricky ways that DFS can get out of hand
- How to recognize signs of this in yourself and others
- How DFS became a problem (twice) for Steve and what he and his wife did to address it
- Steve's reflections on the need for more warnings to the public about the risks of fantasy sports betting as well as help and treatment services for those who need it.
If you would like to read more about why DFS can get out of control, signs of this, and where to get help, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you would like to hear more from Steve Delaney about his journey of recovery both from substance use and a gambling problem, listen to his fantastic podcast: Fantasy or Reality? The GPP. It's available on all podcast apps. You can also reach out to him at fantasyorreality@yahoo.com.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When spouses and family members learn about a loved one's gambling problem, money issues come into the open. Usually this involves debt and it feels overwhelming and emotional. Typically, people don't know what to do. There is often a reflex to step in and pay things off quickly.
In this episode of Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems, we offer guidance for spouses, family members and the person who has gambled. I'm joined by Margaret Johnson, who has thirty years experience helping people overcome debt. She is the President of Solutions Credit Counselling Service, Inc.
Listen in and hear about:
- First steps spouses and family can take after finding out about gambling debt
- How to move forward, whether you intend to stay in the relationship or separate
- How to get a clear picture of the financial situation, regain control of household finances and protect your financial security
- What to consider if you are thinking of using family finances to pay off gambling debt
If you would like to read a summary of Margaret's key recommendations from this episode and learn more about addressing gambling debt, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you would like to connect with Margaret Johnson, reach out to her at Solutions Credit Counselling Service, Inc.
If you live in Canada and would like to access help with gambling debt:
- Find a credit counselling service near you in Canada. Click here.
- Find a Licensed Insolvency Trustees near you in Canada. Click here.
- Find free legal services near you in Canada. Click here.
If you live outside of Canada, search online for "credit counselling services," licensed solvency trustee," and "pro bono legal services" in your region.
If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
It's not easy to talk openly about gambling issues. Nor is it easy to talk about living with mental health issues. In this episode, hear an open, thoughtful and inspiring conversation about one man's experiences with Bipolar Disorder and how this contributed to drinking, gambling and gaming getting out of hand for him. Hear how he is now free of gambling and living well. He teaches us about how to watch out for switching addictions.
Listen and learn about:
- The connections between mental health issues, gambling and substance addiction
- How to notice if you're switching addictions
- How to find healthy replacements for gambling
- Strategies to live well and stay in balance
If you would like to learn more about what the research says about the connections between mental health issues, gambling and substance addiction and strategies for preventing switching addictions, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you would like to access help for mental health issues:
- resources in Canada
- resources in the United States
- resources in Great Britain
If you live outside of these areas, do an online search for mental health help in your country.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services for gambling concerns, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "gambling problem help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
It can be frustrating if you've promised yourself to pull back from gambling and then find you're back at it again. Sometimes this happens the next day. Sometimes after a month, year or more.
It's not easy or simple to stay away from gambling when you're really hooked in to it. But as difficult as setbacks are, it's an opportunity to see more clearly what you need to do differently going forward.
In this episode of Fold em, two people share their experiences of gambling relapses and how they are managing things differently now. My colleague, Manj Bath, who is a counsellor specializing in gambling problems, joins me to share tips for recognizing when you're vulnerable to a relapse and what can help to prevent this.
Listen now and learn:
- How you and your support people can watch out for signs of relapse
- Strategies for managing triggers and cravings
- Why it's important to have a relapse plan - including what to do if gambling gets out of control again
For more information on how to make a solid relapse prevention plan for yourself or with a loved one who struggles with gambling read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
Fold em in taking a short break around Easter in April 2023. The next episode will be released on April 28, 2023.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
John Woods knows a lot about gambling addiction. He gambled for 30 years and tried it all - slots, horse races, online poker and sports betting. John knows about hitting rock bottom because of gambling, the promises you make to yourself to stop, and the tricky ways it pulls you back in. But most importantly, he has first hand experience with overcoming a gambling addiction and is six years from his last bet. During these six years, he set about learning about this isssue and has written a book, "Gambling Addiction Explained: How to STOP Gambling and Regain Control of Your Life.
In this episode, John shares his personal story with gambling problems and thoughts on:
- How the mind deludes you into thinking you're in control with gambling when you clearly are not
- How to watch out for relapses
- What helped him to break free of gambling problems and ideas for others wanting to do the same
For more information on the delusions of control that are a part of problem gambling, read the blog for this episode at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca.
If you would like to read John's book, Gambling Addiction Explained, visit his website at www.gamblingaddictionexplained.org. The book is also available on Amazon, Audible and Spotify. Connect with John on Facebook at Gambling Addiction Explained.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Gambling problems put a huge strain on relationships and finances. It's hard to know what to do and where to turn for help.
Listen to this episode to hear from someone who gets it and got through it. Jane talks openly about how her marriage and family were impacted by her husband's gambling, what she learned from relapses, and what helped to stabilize their finances and rebuild the relationship after he stopped gambling.
Jane brings much wisdom to this conversation - not only from her personal experience, but also from seventeen years of active involvement with Gam-Anon.
Tune in and hear:
- What didn't work in their early attempts to address the gambling problem
- What helped to stop the gambling and bring more stability to their family
- Ideas for handling money issues when a loved one has a gambling problem
- Suggestions and encouragement for spouses, family and friends impacted by someone's gambling
- What is Gam-Anon and how to get connected to meetings
For more information about how to address gambling concerns and their financial impact, go to the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you would like to connect with Gam-Anon, wherever you are in the world, here's how:
Website: https://Gam-Anon.org
Email: gamanonoffice@gamanon.org
Phone: (US#) 718-352-1671
Reach out and learn about the Gam-Anon and find out about in-person, virtual and phone meetings in the US, Canada and internationally. You can see the literature Gam-Anon has available for purchase.
For those of you living in British Columbia, here's how to connect with Gam-Anon and find out about meetings:
Website: https://www.gabc.ca
Email: Vancouvergamanon@shaw.ca
Phone: 1-855-222-5542 (24/7 Gamblers Anonymous hotline with a live person answering each call. Callers who have been impacted by someone else's gambling have the option of being referred to a Gam-Anon member).
To connect with free outreach and counselling services in British Columbia:
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When gambling becomes a habit, you likely are not even aware of having urges and cravings to gamble. You just do it automatically. When you decide to pull back or stop gambling, then you might notice that it's hard to resist urges to gamble.
In this episode, we help you to slow things down and notice gambling triggers, urges and cravings. We also offer strategies for riding through these, so you can feel more in control of gambling.
Hear from two people with a lot of experience on this topic. Eva and Don both decided to stop gambling about four years ago. They share their experience with cravings as they were gambling, in the early days after they decided to stop, and now as urges still pop up.
Listen to episode 56 and hear about:
- how to recognize your gambling urges and cravings
- how to notice what triggers these gambling cravings
- strategies to cope with and decrease gambling urges
- encouragement and inspiration to pull back from gambling if it's causing stress and problems
For more information and strategies for managing urges and cravings to gamble, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
As you gamble more, it's common to notice more urges and impulses to gamble. These cravings can lead to gambling becoming a habit. They also can make it hard to decrease or stop gambling.
In this episode, I'm joined by Kari Olson, who is a counsellor with Gambling Support BC who specializing in gambling problems, substance addiction and trauma. She helps us to understand why cravings happen and strategies for surfing through them.
Listen now and learn:
- what happens in the brain with cravings
- why it can be so hard to resist giving in to cravings to gamble
- three helpful strategies for riding through a craving: delay, distract, and decide
- how to decrease urges and cravings if you are pulling back or stopping gambling
For more information and strategies for managing urges and cravings to gamble, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
The expansion of sports betting in North America had a headstart in the United Kingdom. In this episode, hear from James who lived through this in Britain. He talks about the impact on him of increased online access to sports betting and betting groups. And how what was once a Saturday afternoon trip to the betting shop to wager on a football game shifted into a daily habit on his phone.
Listen now to this great conversation and hear about:
- why sports betting can become a daily habit that takes up more and more of your mental space
- why it can be hard to pull away once it becomes a habit, even though it's having a negative impact
- James' three key strategies for breaking a sports betting habit: cut off access, find your purpose, and talk about it
- what to say to friends and family who gamble when you decide to "retire" from sports betting
For more information and help if you are thinking about cutting back or retiring from sports betting, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you would like to connect with James and check out his fantastic travel podcast - Winging It Travel Podcast, click here.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Fold em Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
I'm joined by SIX people who host and produce podcasts about gambling problems. They all have personal experience with this issue and have done a lot of work to address it, so don't miss this conversation.
Hear about all of their podcasts and what each can offer you. For those making New Year's resolutions listen to a great discussion about how to kick start doing things differently with gambling in 2023. We also talk about how to keep the momentum going if you've already pulled back from gambling and want to avoid it getting out of control again.
Listen and learn about:
- six different podcasts for gambling problems and get to know the hosts
- what worked for them as they first started to address gambling issues
- what helped them to stay on track and prevent a relapse
- how life can feel better - more quickly than you think
If you would like to watch the video of this conversation, check it out at Fold em Podcast on YouTube.
Here's who joined me on this episode and the link for their podcast:
The After Gambling Podcast. Host: Jamie
ALL IN: The Addicted Gambler's Podcast. Host: Brian H
The Broke Girl Society Podcast. Host: Christina
Fall In: The Problem Gambling Podcast For Military Service Members and Veterans. Host: Dave
Fantasy or Reality? The GPP. Host: Steve
Voices .. The Podcast. Host: Brian W.
You can also see Brian H and Christina on their YouTube Channel: The Bet Free Life.
If you would like to learn more about these and other podcasts for gambling problems, visit the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
The holiday season can bring more exposure to gambling - through gifting scratch and lottery products, invitations to meet at the casino, or family and friends placing a bet on a card game or sporting event.
In this episode, Tracy Tsui, who provides gambling outreach support joins me. We talk about why it is important to pay attention to gambling over the holidays, especially with young people. And, if you or someone you care about has had problems with gambling in the past, why this time of year can be risky for relapse.
Listen now and hear about:
- why explosing young people to gambling increases risk for gambling problems later on
- how to talk to young people about gambling concerns
- how the holiday season can present tricky situations if you are working on staying away from gambling
- how to prevent a relapse over the holiday season
- gambling support that is available 24/7 over the holidays
For more information on managing gambling over the holiday season, read the blog for this episode at gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:
Canada: click here
United States: National Council on Problem Gambling
United Kingdom: GamCare
Australia: Gamblers' Help
If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
As people face gambling problems, it's common to feel low, stressed and anxious. You may feel relief from opening up about this issue but find that feelings of shame and guilt are hard to shake. As you return to activities that used to be enjoyable, or do things to help yourself feel better, it feels flat.
In this episode of Fold em, our brain experts return to help us make sense of this. Deirdre Querney, MSW and Dr. Iris Balodis from Brain Connections explain:
- why gambling problems pull down your mood
- what you can do to feel better (maybe even feeling better than before you started gambling)
- how spouses and family members can help if a loved one is struggling with depression, anxiety and/or suicidal thoughts as they face gambling problems
- where to turn for 24/7 help for gambling problems, depression and/or suicidal thoughts
For more information on the brain, gambling problems, and your mood, read the blog for this episode at Gamblingproblemhelp.ca and visit BrainConnections.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For immediate 24/7 support, especially if you are in crisis, contact:
- The Gambling Support Line (British Columbia) 1-888-795-6111
- Talk Suicide Canada 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
- Wellness Together Canada
- 988 Lifeline (United States) call or text 988
- If you live outside of Canada and the United States, search for "gambling problem help" or "crisis support" in your country
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
There is no question that gambling problems are stressful and difficult. But, can good things emerge from these problems for you and your life?
In this episode, hear from Julie who recently marked three years without gambling. She is joined by her counsellor, Allison Rice. They talk about all the ways that life has changed for the better for Julie and what has contributed to this, as well as to keeping gambling out of her life.
Listen now to hear:
- five key ingredients for building your best life as you as you pull away from gambling problems
- what can happen when you're open to working on more than just "fixing the gambling problem"
- what can happen when you stick with counselling, groups and getting support for yourself - even when you don't feel like it any more
For more information and inspiration on finding the silver lining in gambling problems, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Problem gambling leads people to do things they wouldn't normally do. For some, this includes committing a financial crime, such as forgery, embezzlement and theft. These crimes come about as a way to deal with debt and to get money to gamble.
Facing a gambling problem is hard enough, but when it also involves dealing with charges and the court system, it is really hard.
Hear from Brian who shares what this ordeal was like for him after turning himself in to police, and what helped him to get through it.
Listen now to this episode and hear about:
- what happened for Brian as charges were laid and he went to court
- why he decided to be open with family, friends and recovery supports and some surprisingly good things that came from this
- Brian's reflections on how to avoid getting stuck in shame and guilt because of compulsive gambling
- what helped Brian to move through really hard and uncomfortable times and get to a place where today life is "pretty good"
For more information on moving forward after gambling leads to crime, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
To hear more from Brian, listen to Voices ... the Podcast and visit Voices of Problem Gambling Recovery.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
In this episode, hear from Marcia about how she not only stopped gambling, but also made changes to how she and her partner handle money. Almost two-years in, she tell us "It feels amazing to not be worried about money. Having that security also helps my gambling recovery."
Amanda Martin, from the Credit Counselling Society, also returns to Fold em and offers tips for taking charge of your money.
Listen now and learn about:
- Three reasons why taking charge of your money is an important part of addressing compulsive gambling
- How to track where your money is going
- How to have more control over spending and saving
- How to keep going with budgeting and reach your financial goals
- Tools, apps and free help with money management
For more information on taking charge of your money, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
For more information on credit counselling and to find a credit counselling service in Canada, visit this federal government website. In the United States, visit the National Foundation for Credit Counseling. If you live outside of these areas, search for accredited credit counselling services in your country.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you like what you hear on Fold em and haven't yet followed us on your podcast app, make sure you do. You'll be notified when a new episode is released and help our visibility. If you're not sure how to follow or subscribe to this podcast, read our blog for instructions.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
For some, gambling leads to a situation where you can't pay your bills and debts when they are due. This is incredibly stressful. Listen now to hear about two options for addressing insolvency: a consumer proposal and personal bankruptcy.
Blair Mantin, a Licensed Insolvency Trustee and President of Sands and Associates, joins me in this episode. He answers common questions about insolvency proceedings, including:
- Who is eligible for a consumer proposal and bankruptcy? What is involved? What will it cost?
- Will this impact my credit rating? Do I have to get rid of my car, home and/or RRSP? Are tax debt and student loans included?
- How will it impact my spouse if I go ahead with a consumer proposal or bankruptcy?
- What are the differences with bankruptcy proceedings in Canada and the United States?
- How do I find a Licensed Insolvency Trustee?
If you would like more information about consumer proposals and bankruptcy, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
To find a Licensed Insolvency Trustee in Canada, visit the federal government's database.
If you have further questions for Blair Mantin, Licensed Insolvency Trustee, contact him at Sands and Associates. He is also the co-host of a weekly radio show on CKNW 980 AM called Dollars and Sense, which is available as a podcast.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you like what you hear on Fold em and haven't yet followed us on your podcast app, make sure you do. You will then be notified when a new episode is released and help increase our visiblity. If you're not sure how to follow or subscribe to a podcast, read this blog for instructions.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
With gambling debt, it can feel like you're backed into a corner. But, there are options for moving forward besides hoping for a big win.
In this episode, hear Adrian share his story of stopping gambling and getting out of a tough cycle with payday loan companies and living pay cheque to pay cheque. Amanda Martin, a Financial Educator with the Credit Counselling Society, shares essential tips for dealing with creditors and collection agencies as well three options for addressing unmanageable debt.
Listen now to this episode and learn about:
- Adrian's story of breaking out of the cycle of gambling and debt
- What creditors can do to collect debt and your rights in this situation
- Tips for dealing with collection agencies
- Options for addressing unmanageable debt, including debt management programs, consumer proposals and personal bankruptcy
If you would like more information to help you tackle money problems due to gambling, read the blog for thie episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
With gambling debt, it can feel like you're backed into a corner. But, there are options for moving forward besides hoping for a big win.
In this episode, hear Adrian share his story of stopping gambling and getting out of a tough cycle with payday loan companies and living pay cheque to pay cheque. Amanda Martin, a Financial Educator with the Credit Counselling Society, shares essential tips for dealing with creditors and collection agencies as well three options for addressing unmanageable debt.
Listen now to this episode and learn about:
- Adrian's story of breaking out of the cycle of gambling and debt
- What creditors can do to collect debt and your rights in this situation
- Tips for dealing with collection agencies
- Options for addressing unmanageable debt, including debt management programs, consumer proposals and personal bankruptcy
If you would like more information to help you tackle money problems due to gambling, read the blog for thie episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
The ads with celebrity endorsements and incentives to give sports betting a try are everywhere. Hear from Joel Soper, a compulsive gambler who knows the industry well, about the risks and downsides of sports betting.
Listen now to this episode and learn about:
- Joel's personal experience with sports gambling
- Why it's hard to pull away from sports betting once you're in action
- Ideas for decreasing and stopping sports gambling
- Why live sports betting is something to be concerned about
If you would like more information on the downsides of sports betting and what to do if it is a concern, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. You can also read the book that Joel Soper wrote with Philip Wyeth, "Never Enough Zeroes."
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
The ads with celebrity endorsements and incentives to give sports betting a try are everywhere. Hear from Joel Soper, a compulsive gambler who knows the industry well, about the risks and downsides of sports betting.
Listen now to this episode and learn about:
- Joel's personal experience with sports gambling
- Why it's hard to pull away from sports betting once you're in action
- Ideas for decreasing and stopping sports gambling
- Why live sports betting is something to be concerned about
If you would like more information on the downsides of sports betting and what to do if it is a concern, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. You can also read the book that Joel Soper wrote with Philip Wyeth, "Never Enough Zeroes."
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
It's common to get caught up in the emotions of gambling. Who hasn't had thoughts such as, "I'm on a lucky streak!" or "I'm due for a win anytime."
In this episode, we share examples of how our thinking gets off track because of the emotions of gambling. We present some facts to help you think straight and keep gambling in control.
Learn about:
- how the random number generators in slot machines work
- why gambling for long periods of time can work against you
- why it's helpful to take a second look at your systems and superstitions
- how you might be missing the signs of gambling addiction
This episode, like the previous two, is for a broader audience - those of you who gamble and don't see it as a problem, but would like to know more about keeping in check.
If you would like more information on thinking straight about gambling, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to connect with the guests for this episode, Martha Funk and Roxanne L'Esperance, or access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
How do you know if gambling is a problem? In this episode we help you to recognize the warning signs of a gambling problem. We also offer guidance on next steps to take if you or a loved one have concerns about gambling.
Listen now to learn about:
- seven warning signs of a gambling problem
- what to do if you notice signs of a gambling problem in yourself or someone you care about
- where to get support and help
If you would like more information on the warning signs of gambling addiction, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or take a self assessment on the Gambling Support BC website.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
For a list of free gambling help services in Canada, click here. To access free help in the United States, visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Most of us gamble. In British Columbia, nearly 75% of adults gambled at least once in the past year. For some (about 3-4% of adults), it gets out of hand and causes problems.
If you gamble, how do you keep it in check? What limits should you set for yourself? How do you stick to these limits?
In this episode, we tell you about guidelines that have recently been developed in Canada to help you reduce the risk of experiencing harms from gambling.
Listen now to learn about:
- guidelines for how much to spend, how often to play, and how to limit the types of gambling activities
- who has a higher risk of developing gambling problems
- tips for sticking to your gambling limits.
If you would like more information on the guidelines for low-risk gambling, see Adrienne and her guests in this YouTube video, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblinghelp.ca or visit www.gamblingguidelines.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
There are many options for help, support and treatment for gambling concerns. Everyone is different so it's important to find what works best for you.
In this episode, hear Brian's personal experiences with various recovery programs. He is now a Certified Gambling Recovery Peer Mentor and shares tips for moving forward.
Listen now to learn:
- what's available to help with gambling concerns
- how to get past saying "no" to help
- how to put in place the right supports for you
- how to stay on track even if you have a relapse, a program doesn't work for you and/or you no longer find it helpful
If you would like more information and links for gambling help, support and treatment, visit the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
You can also find out more about different programs of recovery on Brian's podcast "Voices ... the Podcast" or visit the website for Voices of Problem Gambling Recovery Inc.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
A common question with gambling problems is, "Why Can't I Stop?" In this episode we hear from Deirdre Querney, MSW, and Dr. Iris Balodis who answer this question by telling us about the brain and gambling addiction.
Tune in to learn about:
- how gambling addiction changes the brain
- why people with gambling addiction have a hard time pulling back from positive rewards
- how changes to the brain are different with compulsive gambling and substance addictions
- how to re-wire your brain to resist gambling urges and other addictions
To see a great video and learn more about gambling addiction and the brain visit BrainConnections.ca
Find out more at the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Fold em Podcast. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
It's hard on parents and families when an adult son or daughter have a gambling problem.
In this episode of Fold em, a mother shares what she has learned as her son dealt with gambling addiction for the past seven years. Irene Tang, who has counselled families through gambling problems for twenty-five years, share strategies for moving forward.
Listen to learn:
- how to respond to requests for financial help
- what parents can do to support a young adult with a gambling problem
- how parents can help prevent a gambling relapse
- how parents and family can decrease their stress, anxiety, hurt and anger
- supports and resources for parents and families impacted by gambling problems
Find more information and resources for parents and families impacted by compulsive gambling in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
Help for family and spouses is also available through Gam-Anon.
If you live in British Columbia, free, confidential counselling and outreach services are available to anyone with concerns about gambling, including spouses and family. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
If you would like to connect with us through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Fold em Podcast.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Gambling problems can create a lot of stress in families. Children and young people may not know that a parent or caregiver is struggling with gambling, but they feel the impact.
In this episode, we hear from Dr. Toula Kourgiantakis about:
- how parental gambling problems affect families and children
- signs that a young person is impacted by a parent's gambling problem
- how to support young people and families in this situation
- how to include children and families in the recovery process
Find out more about supporting children of a parent who has a gambling problem in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
In this episode, hear my conversation with a former sports better about: * how sports betting took over his life * what happened when family got involved * how he solved a debt problem * what helped him to get to 10-months without a bet * his suggestions for others who have had sports betting take over their life
Learn more about why it's hard to step back from sports betting and strategies that can help. As well as tips for family and friends that want to support someone consumed by online sports betting. Read the blog for this episode at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Gambling problems can return, and addiction may show up again in different ways. To keep your momentum going, take steps to prevent a relapse and rebuild your life and relationships.
Allison Rice, a counsellor specializing in gambling problems, offers guidance learned from 20-years of working with people to overcome addiction
Learn more about preventing relapse and rebuilding your life in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
As you begin to face gambling problems, it's hard to know if you're on track. To keep things moving in a positive direction, it's helpful to get guidance from people who have been through it. Allison Rice, a counsellor specializing in addiction, shares her learnings about what works in the beginning. This episode offers guidance for those struggling with gambling as well as their family, spouses and friends.
Find out more about first steps in overcoming gambling problems in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Permission giving thoughts come up to justify, rationalize and allow gambling to happen - even when part of you isn't so sure about it.
In this episode, learn how to notice your permission giving thoughts so you can slow things down and have more control of gambling choices.
A former gambler gives examples of her permission giving thoughts. Jackie Jankovic, a counsellor specializing in gambling problems, shares tips to help you notice and manage these thoughts.
Find out more about permission giving thoughts in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
The Centre for Gambling Research at the University of British Columbia is launching research on permission giving thoughts. To find out more, contact Raymond Wu at rwu@psych.ubc.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
There has been a dramatic increase in advertising for sports betting as well opportunities to place a bet. However, the public conversation has been pretty silent about gambling problems associated with sports betting.
John Simmons shares his personal story about an addiction with poker and sports betting. He's a former casino worker and talks openly about the challenges of dealing with a gambling problem when everyone around you is gambling. John describes what helped him to stop.
John is working on a film called Betting Your Life that takes a critical look at the legalization of sports betting in the United States and the growing industry around this.
Learn more about what to do if sports betting is getting out of hand for you or someone you care about in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Listen in for information and first hand experience with managing adult ADHD. We explain why adults with ADHD are at increased risk for gambling problems. Hear about strategies specifically for adults with ADHD - how to keep gambling in check and how to prevent a relapse if you struggle with compulsive gambling.
I'm joined by Darryl Anderson, a counsellor who works in mental health settings and helps people with gambling problems. He also lives with ADHD himself.
For more information on adult ADHD:
-
Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance
-
Centre for ADHD Awareness
-
Additude
-
International Consensus on ADHD
-
read Gina Pera, Gabor Mate, Russell Barcley
Learn more about ADHD and gambling problems in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
If you gamble and have ADHD there is a greater risk that gambling will become a severe problem. In this episode, learn about the symptoms of ADHD and challenges of living with it as an adult. Darryl Anderson, a Clinical Counsellor specializing in mental health and gambling concerns, explains why ADHD increases the risk for gambling problems. He also shares about his process of recognizing ADHD in himself and having it diagnosed in adulthood.
For more information on ADHD:
-
take the Adult ADHD Self Report Scale
-
visit the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance
-
OR the Centre for ADHD Awareness
-
check out How to ADHD on YouTube
Learn more about ADHD and gambling addiction in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
After gambling gets out of hand, both the gambler and their family want to know ... How do we make sure this doesn't happen again? How do we rebuild trust between us?
Not all relationships survive gambling addiction. But, if you're committed to working together, this episode offers guidance and inspiration.
Hear Sam's story of opening up to her husband early in their relationship about a gambling problem. She shares how they tackled this together, kept communication open and adjusted strategies when there were relapses.
Kuldip Gill, a counsellor with expertise in helping couples and families overcome gambling problems shares tips for doing recovery together.
Learn more tips for rebuilding trust in your relationships and working with a spouse or family to prevent relapse in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
As part of her recovery, Christina reached out to find others who had been pulled into compulsive gambling. She wanted to create more opportunities for those dealing with gambling problems - particularly women - to connect and know they are not alone. What emerged is that Christina founded The Broke Girl Society as a thriving group on Facebook and a popular podcast. Listen to my conversation with Christina to hear her reflections on the first nine months of her recovery. Learn how she moved through cravings and a tidal wave of emotions in the first ninety days. Hear how she has worked on keeping life in balance and recovery in the forefront. Together, we share ideas about how to fill the gap left when gambling stops and to keep moving towards greater peace in your life.
Learn more tips for pulling back from compulsive gambling in our blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
To connect with Christina and The Broke Girl Society:
Instagram and Twitter: @thebrokegirlsociety
Email: brokegirl.cr@gmail.com
To listen and follow The Broke Girl Society podcast:
Apple
Spotify
YouTube
To watch the Bet Free Life With Brian & Christina:
YouTube
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
It often takes a number of tries to break free from a gambling problem. Like peeling back the layers of an onion, each time gambling gets out of control, it tells you that something more or different is needed for you to better manage this issue. Often what is needed is a willingness to look a little deeper within yourself and open up.
Hear a powerful and inspiring conversation with an Indigenous man who found his way through the impact of abuse, colonization and the dark days of drinking, drugs and gambling addiction. He shares how finding his voice, trusting his gut and opening up helped him to get to a place where he is standing tall and proud. Listen now and get some hope and guidance for your recovery path.
Learn more about opening up as part of your gambling addiction recovery and find resources specifically for Indigenous people in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
We would love to hear your story of opening up and finding your voice as you have moved away from gambling problems. Comment below the post for this episode on Facebook. Or get a dialogue going and share this episode with others.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111. We have Indigneous counsellors and outreach providers to help with concerns about your own or a loved one's gambling.
Other resources for Indigneous people looking for counselling and recovery support in Canada:
The Residential School Crisis Line is 1-800-721-0066. For residents of BC, the KUU-US crisis line is 1-800-588-8717.
Counselling is available through the First Nations Health Authority and addictions services can be accessed through most Friendship Centres and Band Offices in Canada.
Another option is Wellbriety. Find an in person Wellbriety Circle near you or join a Wellbriety Online Meeting.
Thanks for listening to Fold em. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Dealing with a gambling problem involves difficult decisions about who and when to tell and how much to share.
Hear one woman's experiences with family finding out about her gambling and the dilemma that emerged about whether to tell extended family. She shares lessons learned from opening up to friends and surprising outcomes from being honest with new acquaintances. Listen now for helpful guidance to help you sort out who to tell and how to do this so it goes well.
Learn more about how to talk about gambling concerns with a spouse or family in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
We would love to hear what YOU have learned from talking about gambling issues. Comment below the post for this episode on Facebook. Or, get a dialogue going and share this episode with others.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Thanks for listening to Fold em- the podcast where you hear guidance from people who have learned from experience with gambling issues. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Online gambling can be tricky to control. Our devices are nearby. Deposits happen so quickly.
Hear first-hand experience and a long list of helpful strategies from someone who gambled online for ten years and has now shut it down. Learn about options for blocking gambling websites and apps. Benjamin Wong, who has helped many people chose and install blocking software, provides guidance on these tools.
Learn more about overcoming online gambling problems in the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. Find out what gambling blocker apps are available and other strategies to slow down online betting.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
Even after gambling gets out of hand, it's common to want to keep it going. Or, to keep a door open to gambling in the future. Some typical thoughts are, "I learned my lesson, now I'll control it," "It's not such a big deal," OR "I can't just turn my back on all the money that was lost."
Listen to this episode and hear an honest conversation with a gambler who continued gambling while in a debt repayment program. Hear about his experiences with trying to control gambling and how he sorted through the question about whether to stop.
If gambling has gotten out of control for you or a loved one, read the blog for this podcast at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. We share important tips, especially if you are thinking about returning to gambling.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
When gambling has gotten out of hand, it can leave you heavy with regret, anger and guilt. Both gamblers and their family members feel this way. It's common to wonder if you'll ever shake these feelings.
Hear my conversation with two former gamblers about what helped them to reach a place where they can look at themselves in the mirror again. Learn steps you can take to start moving in that direction.
To find out more about overcoming regret, anger and guilt from gambling problems, visit the blog for this podcast at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Online chat rooms are a great way to get support and information for gambling problems. You can stay anonymous, share at your own pace, connect 24/7 and get inspired by people around the world who are also tackling this issue.
Listen to my conversation with Ken who has participated with online chat communities for much of his 19-years of recovery. He says that chat continues to provide him with hope and strength. You will also hear from Michelle Shewell who, like Ken, moderates a chat for GamTalk. You'll be convinced to give it a try!
To find out more about chat rooms for gambling problems, visit the blog for this podcast at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services, connect with us online through Gambling Support BC or call the Gambling Support Line at 1-888-795-6111.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Many people are reluctant to attend a gambling support group. However, there is something about connecting with people who are addressing the same issues that not only brings so much relief, but more importantly, is really helpful.
Hear from a poker player about why he decided to try groups and then has kept going for the past four years. My colleague, Matt McLean, shares how online groups are way better than he first imagined.
To find out more about support groups for gambling problems, visit the blog for this podcast at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.
If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call the Gambling Support Line at 1-888-795-6111.
Thank you for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook at Foldempodcast.
There is increasing awareness that not only substances (alcohol and drugs) can be addictive, but also that some of the activities we do for enjoyment can become excessive and cause problems. This can happen with gambling, gaming, social media, sex, shopping and eating.
Sometimes people can develop problems with more than one substance or behaviour. If you or someone you care about has struggled with this, tune in to learn about how to manage and prevent cross addiction.
Listen to my conversation with Doug Hilton, a counsellor specializing in gambling problems and addiction. Hear how many people successfully break free. Learn how paying attention to balance and wellness can keep you on track and addiction free.
Thank you for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Fold em is taking a break for the month of August 2021, but we are busy planning episodes for the fall. If there is a question or topic you would like us to address in an upcoming episode, email us as foldempodcast@gmail.com.
Breaking free from an alcohol or drug problem is a major achievement. But addiction is tricky and can show up in other ways without you being initially aware. Maybe you find yourself in some of the same patterns of isolating and keeping secrets, but this time with gambling, gaming, eating or sex.
Listen to my conversation with someone who was twenty years alcohol free when he found himself with a gambling problem. Learn how to watch out for and face cross-addiction. Hear how stepping into recovery for gambling brought my guest to a better place with himself and his life.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook at Foldempodcast.
When you are in the midst of a gambling addiction, your mind tells you the most dubious things to keep it all going. Just because you stop, these thoughts don’t immediately disappear.
Listen to a conversation with on online poker player about his process of breaking free from an addiction mindset. Hear how initially he had one foot in recovery and one foot out. Learn how he reached eleven months of gambling abstinence and a more solid place with himself and his relationships.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook at Foldempodcast.
As casinos reopen around the world, many are excited and others are nervous.
If you gamble or know someone who does, take a moment and listen to this episode. Hear two people in recovery share their experiences with relapse and what they are doing to stay gambling free. Learn from Margaret Sigsworth, who has worked with gamblers on the casino floor and in the community for 13 years about sticking to your limits.
Thanks for listening to Fold em – the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook and Instagram at Foldempodcast.
If you’re knee deep in gambling problems but don’t know what to do, listen in.
Our guest reached out for gambling addiction help just eight months ago. Hear the conversation between her and her counsellor, Allison Rice, about how online gambling got out of hand so quickly and her process of regaining control. Learn how she got her finances, relationships and integrity back on track.
Allison shares her invaluable experience and learning from guiding people through addiction recovery for the past twenty years.
Thanks for listening to Fold em – the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at FoldemPodcast.
When you’ve been captured by gambling addiction, it’s hard to believe you’ll ever get your life back. But you definitely can and it likely won’t take as long as you think.
Our guest shares his story of recovery from a 20-year gambling problem. Hear how counselling and groups helped with making discoveries about himself, his relationships, and the role of gambling in his life. And how he was able to use this awareness and support to not only break free of gambling and other negative habits, but also to build enjoyment and purpose into his days.
It’s an inspiring discussion for everyone, but especially for those wanting to take back control from gambling addiction.
Thanks for listening to Fold em – the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at www.facebook.com/foldempodcast/
The average age of a gamer in Canada is 39. Not what we expect. Our stereotype is of the teenage gamer.
Many of us are spending increasing time with games on our devices. And, for those who have pulled back from gambling, gaming sometimes fills the void. What is the impact – on us? For recovery?
In this episode, listen to our guest speak candidly about his experiences with gambling and gaming and why he ultimately decided to stop both. Learn from Ben Wong, an advocate, educator and clinician specializing in the impact of digital devices, about how to recognize if gaming is getting in the way of your best life.
Thanks for listening to Fold em – the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
You’ve probably heard about GameStop, shorted stocks and cryptocurrencies. There is growing interest in day trading and the action has moved from the exchange floor to our devices and online forums.
You may know someone who has jumped into the action. Or, maybe you have. If so, this episode is essential listening.
Learn about the risks of speculative investments and how to protect your hard-earned money. Hear from a former day trader and online poker player about his experiences. Plus, expert advice from Tracey Bissett, financial analyst and educator, on the similarities between day trading and gambling and how to stay on track with your financial goals.
Check out the Fold em interview with Tracey Bissett on YouTube.
To hear more from Tracey on need-to-know tips for managing money and financial fitness, listen and subscribe to her podcast, Young Money.
Connect with Tracey on Linkedin, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Learn more about how to address gambling concerns and find resources and support by visiting our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reaching out through Facebook and Instagram at Foldempodcast.
After finding out about a gambling problem, many family members take control – of finances and fixing things. It’s an understandable and sometimes needed reaction. However, recovery usually looks more like a marathon than a sprint. Spouses and family often approach the start line already exhausted and stressed.
It can help for family to step back and take care of themselves. There is a place for working together and providing support, but with the gambler taking the lead.
Tune in to get guidance, both from a spouse who is nearing the finish line and a counsellor who has coached many couples and families along the way.
Thanks for listening to Fold em – the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode. For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Facebook and Instagram at Foldempodcast.
Gambling problems can create a lot of stress in the home. In this episode, hear one woman's story about growing up with a mother who struggles with gambling and substance addictions. Hear about her difficult decision to have no contact with her mother and the pressures she experiences as a result.
If you are wondering about whether to step away from the impact of a gambling problem, this one's for you.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Finding out about a loved one’s gambling problem can turn your life upside down. In this episode we help get your feet back on the ground. Hear a spouse talk about what worked for her and what didn’t. Learn ways to talk to the gambler and encourage action in dealing with the problem. Tips for speaking up about your needs and pacing the process to avoid burnout. Listen in and move forward.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Behind each person with a gambling problem there are typically six others directly impacted. This includes a spouse, family, friends and colleagues. They are often carrying a heavy load: worry about finances, anger, fear, and confusion about what to do next. This is our first of four episodes focusing on those affected by gambling problems. Tune in to hear two spouses talk about their experiences and how they are moving forward. You don’t have to be alone with this.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Gambling problems are stressful for everyone involved. It can be hard to believe that you and your relationships will feel ok again. In this episode, learn about the impact of addiction, stress and anxiety on your nervous system and strategies to feel better. Hear stories about how connecting with supportive people is not only calming, but can rebuild your self-worth. Tune in - this one will inspire!
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Many people think that dealing with problem gambling is clear-cut. What’s the big deal – you just scale it back or stop. But the reality is that it’s not that simple or easy to do. Why? Tune in for the answer. Learn about the connection between our nervous system and addiction and why paying attention to stress and getting better at settling ourselves is so helpful for recovery. Our two guests bring many years of experience and wisdom to this topic.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing the impact of gambling.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Do you find that triggers and cravings make it harder to stop gambling? Learning to recognize the earliest signs that gambling is pulling you in and having tools to slow this down is crucial for regaining control. Hear from a gambler who has been doing this and how it has helped him to stay away. Listen in and be better prepared to catch gambling before it takes hold of you.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Maybe you don’t think of yourself as having a gambling problem or addiction. But you know it feels out of control. Tune in to better understand why gambling can change from feeling fun to being stressful and all-consuming. Hear from a gambler and counsellor who will explain how knowing more about the cycle of addiction will help you regain control.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Have you stopped casino gambling, but are now betting online? For problem gamblers this can get out of control fast. In this episode, we’ll hear from a gambler who moved from casino to online play and then put a stop to both. Learn about the risks of online gambling, strategies to keep it in check, and what to do if it gets out of hand. Don’t leave it to chance – listen in and make protecting yourself a sure thing.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing the impact of gambling problems.
Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Many people are gambling online. But, do you know the signs it's out of control and what to do if it is? Tune in for tips from an online gambler who works in the tech field and struggled to stop but ultimately did. Better understand why online gambling can be so hard to give up. Learn how to use blocking software and player self-exclusion to get space between you and another bet. Listen now to gain the upper hand with online gambling.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert guidance on managing the impact of gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Have you been a spender all your life? Juggling debt and bills? Tune in for tips from a gambler who changed her money habits. Learn about how to pay off gambling debt, reach financial goals, and significantly decrease stress about money. Listen now and get yourself moving towards a better relationship with money.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
It can be hard to talk about gambling debt with a spouse or family member. But handling it on your own is exhausting and can leave you stuck as the debt continues to grow. This episode inspires action and solutions. We offer tips for negotiating support on your terms so you are more effective at taking control of gambling, paying off debt and reaching financial goals.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.
Gambling debt can have a major impact on you and your family. This episode will help you to take control of this problem. Learn about options for extracting yourself from debt through credit counselling, consumer proposals and bankruptcy. Hear from a gambler who has been through it and will inspire you to take action.
Thanks for listening to Fold em - the podcast where you hear real stories and expert advice on managing the impact of gambling problems. Subscribe or follow on your podcast app so you never miss an episode.
For more information on gambling concerns and to find resources and support, visit our website at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca or reach out through Instagram and Facebook at Foldempodcast.